Many high school students apply to summer programs, but when asked why they’re applying, many of them tell us, “it will look good on my college application.” While that’s true, we would much prefer that you find programs that you’re actually going to enjoy and that deepen your interest in a field, even if it’s not related to what you want to major in.
Kingfisher Prep students often apply and are accepted to multiple summer programs. Recent favorites include a cancer and neuroscience research internship at USC, a Critical Thinking class at Wisco, a law class at Duke, and a conservatory-style program at Carnegie Mellon.
If you’re applying to summer programs (sophomores and juniors, we’re looking at you!), here are a few tips to make sure the program is a good fit for you:
Are you actually interested in the class you want to take? Don’t take a class just because it “looks good”: if you’re genuinely engaged with the material, you’ll learn much more and maybe even be able to write about your experience in your application essays.
What’s the campus like during the summer? Depending on the location of the campus, it can have a totally different vibe during the summer months than during the proper school year.
Is this a school you’re interested in applying to as a senior? Summer programs can help you get a feel for what it would feel like to go to that school, especially if it’s your top choice.
How much of your summer will the class or program take up? Some of them are short, only a few weeks, while others can last one or two months. Make sure to balance the class with genuine vacation time and other summer activities.
Is it financially feasible to take this class? Sometimes aid is available, but it depends on the school. You may get just as much out of taking a class at a different school or pursuing a different type of program, like a local internship or summer job.
Overall, we have found that our students love the summer courses they take. It helps them get a feeling for life after high school and challenges them to write, study, and engage with material at a college level.
If you need help choosing a summer program or coaching on your applications (which are good prep for your senior year college application essays!), email Nathaniel at nathaniel@kingfisherprep.com and we’ll get to work.
"Five Summer Program Application Tips"
Comments